Vitamin C can cure depression
5.0Limited
evidence
evidence
The Claim
Some individuals believe that Vitamin C can serve as a cure for depression, attributing mood improvements to the vitamin's role in neurotransmitter synthesis.
Origin
This misconception may arise from anecdotal evidence and some studies suggesting a link between Vitamin C levels and mood, leading to oversimplified claims about its effectiveness.
What Science Says
While evidence suggests that low Vitamin C levels may be associated with increased depressive symptoms, it is not a cure. A systematic review highlighted that while supplementation may help improve mood in those with deficiencies, it should not replace conventional treatments for depression. Effect sizes are modest, indicating a supportive role rather than a cure.
Verdict
Mostly False
Sources
- PMID:28178022 The impact of essential fatty acid, B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium and zinc supplementation on stress levels in women: a systematic review.
- PMID:39603702 Interventions for the management of long covid (post-covid condition): living systematic review.
- PMID:32552785 The neuropsychiatric effects of vitamin C deficiency: a systematic review.